Sassparilla

Feb102014February 10, 2014February 11, 2014No Commentby Bake

Posted in Music

Since writing for EBE, I’ve been mostly bringing up music that I’ve listened to and cutting it down a few notches. Even being the cynical prick that I am, I know that’s not the right way to appreciate music. I like all sorts of bands, so instead of telling you who disappointed me today I’d like to introduce everyone to Sassparilla. I say introduce because even after 4 albums, they don’t seem that well known outside of Portland, OR. So if by chance you’ve already heard about them and like them, then I’m sorry for assuming I’m cooler than you. And if you already know them but don’t like them, well you sir, can go fuck yourself.

Self and otherwise described as ridiculous/intriguing genres like “dirty bluegrass”, “punk-americana”, “indie-roots”, and “ragtime jugband” (neat-o), how could you not want to listen to them? There’s blues in there, there’s folk, and especially in their later stuff straight up pop-rock. And they do it well. They even incorporate jazzy vocals, think Manhattan Transfer type bullshit that I normally hate, but somehow pull it off. The harmonica work that comes up is often stellar. There are great subtle uses of multiple string instruments. And some sneaky accordion. Some songs even showcase washtub bass and cigar-box guitar. Yeah, I know, those are real things.

Sometimes there’s dueling male-female vocals (always a personal favorite), sometimes there’s straight up blues jams, and sometimes you get catchy pop songs (“The Mary Celeste”) that sound like they belong on a Best of Counting Crows disc, non Shrek-division. If that’s too peppy for you try “Buick”, which will either make you quit or start drinking. They’re pretty f’n versatile. While their live shows are known to be wild jug band jams full of, I don’t know, nerds trying to drunkenly dance and clap, an album like The Darndest Thing can just as easily be enjoyed the morning after. And since they only play shows in the pacific northwest you might as well just listen to what they’ve got to offer right now on your computer.

The Drink: This may or may not be a thing that’s happening in conjunction with album reviews now. Considering the obvious connection to the non-alcoholic soda Sarsparilla, that should probably be the choice. But when I listen to their stuff I think whiskey. Not straight, not with this band. You choose your mixer.